Mixed reactions from Osun State have trailed the recent victory of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the Ondo State governorship election.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, on Sunday, declared Aiyedatiwa, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, winner after a keenly contested poll.

Governor Aiyedatiwa polled a total of 420,000 votes to defeat his closest rival, Dr. Olumide Akinola of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, who garnered 398,000 votes.

In Osogbo, the Osun State capital, a cross-section of residents shared their thoughts on the outcome.

While some hailed the victory as a testament to Aiyedatiwa’s performance as deputy governor and later governor in Ondo State, others questioned the credibility of the election.

Titilayo Adekunle, a businesswoman, said, “Governor Aiyedatiwa’s victory shows that people appreciate continuity and stability. His administration can build on the foundation laid in Ondo State.”

Conversely, Ayodeji Oladipo, a university lecturer, raised concerns about the electoral process.

“While the outcome is clear, we cannot ignore reports of irregularities in some polling units. INEC must address these issues to build public confidence,” he said.

Political analysts in Osun have also weighed in on the development. Dr Segun Adebayo, a political scientist at Obafemi Awolowo University, described the election as a defining moment for Ondo State politics.

“Aiyedatiwa’s victory signifies the growing strength of incumbency in Nigerian politics, but it also highlights the need for electoral reforms to ensure transparency,” he noted.

Youth groups in Osun State had diverse reactions as well as members of the Progressive Youth Alliance, PYA, celebrated the APC’s triumph.

According to their spokesperson, Bolaji Ogunleye, “The governor’s win is a win for progressive governance. We are hopeful that his administration will prioritise youth empowerment and job creation.”

Market traders in Ilesa also commented on the victory. Alhaji Rafiu Ajibade, a leader in the Osun Market Association, said, “We hope that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s policies will positively impact the Southwest region, especially in boosting trade and commerce between states.”

Religious leaders in Osun offered prayers for the governor’s success. Reverend Samuel Adeoye, a cleric in Osogbo, urged Aiyedatiwa to govern with integrity.

“Leadership is a divine mandate. We pray he leads with wisdom and fairness,” he said.

Similarly, Imam Wasiu Lawal from Ede called for inclusivity in his administration.

Meanwhile, members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Osun described the election as a missed opportunity.

Kolapo Adesina, a party stalwart, lamented, “This result is disappointing for us. It is time to restrategise and reconnect with the people.”

As Governor Aiyedatiwa prepares to assume office, many in Osun State are watching closely, hoping his tenure will bring progress not only to Ondo but also to the Southwest region.

Ondo Guber: Osun residents react to Gov Aiyedatiwa’s election victory